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Venezuela's Maduro Intensifies Crackdown: 24 Killed, 2,000 Arrested After Disputed Election

Aug 17, 2024, 03:04 PM

Following Venezuela's disputed presidential election last month, President Nicolás Maduro's regime has intensified its crackdown on dissent. Reports indicate that at least 24 Venezuelan voters have been killed, with over 2,000 people arrested and hundreds forced into hiding. The government has employed tactics such as online surveillance and intimidation to suppress opposition. Notably, incidents of violence have been reported in areas like Maracay and Petare, where security forces have been deployed to quell protests. Maduro has called for an 'iron fist' approach against demonstrators, with 25 deaths reported, further escalating tensions in the country. Venezuelans are forced to delete WhatsApp, and X is blocked, while the electoral council hides voting data. Despite the repression, Venezuelans continue to protest against what they perceive as a stolen election.